On the first Saturday in May, we walk together as the community of the Duke Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant (PBMT) Program. Along the way, as we carry balloons with patients' names on them, people stop, talk together, and enjoy each other. Finally, we release the balloons.

The Rainbow of Heroes Walk commemorates and celebrates all Duke Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant patients and their families. Refreshments, music, and activities for everyone are provided.

The Walk is not only the main fundraiser for the Duke PBMT Family Support Program. More than that, it is a reunion for patients, families, nurses, therapists, doctors, volunteers, and supporters who have come to know each other through the months-long transplant process.

The Mission of the Duke PBMT Family Support Program

The Duke PBMT Family Support Program provides over 25 programs, including patient activities, incentive programs, volunteers, parent support and financial assistance to help ‘lighten the burden’ for families. We try to provide some sense of normalcy for families who are in extremely stressful circumstances. Since we are not funded by Duke, we rely solely on philanthropic contributions.